THE alarming rise in kidney disease, highlighted by nephrologists at a recent seminar, deserves serious attention from policymakers, healthcare professionals and the public. With an estimated 30 million people suffering from some form of kidney disease and more than 30,000 deaths attributed to kidney-related illnesses every year, the situation cannot be ignored.
The speakers at the seminar very rightly highlighted the consequences of self-medication and the unnecessary or prolonged use of medicines. Many people routinely take painkillers and other medicines for common ailments without consulting a doctor, unaware that some medicines can cause serious damage to the kidneys when used improperly or for extended periods. This practice is particularly dangerous because kidney disease often develops silently, with symptoms appearing only after significant damage has occurred. Such seminars are extremely important as they create awareness about health risks that often remain overlooked. Public awareness, however, must be accompanied by effective regulatory measures. There is a pressing need to ensure strict implementation of rules requiring medical stores and pharmacies to sell prescription medicines only against a valid prescription from a qualified doctor. Regulatory authorities should also conduct regular inspections and take action against outlets violating these rules. At the same time, strict action is needed against quacks who prescribe medicines without proper medical qualifications. Their unchecked practices can put patients’ lives at risk and contribute to the misuse of medicines. The authorities must strengthen enforcement mechanisms and ensure that only qualified healthcare professionals are allowed to diagnose illnesses and prescribe treatment. The message from the seminar is clear: kidney disease should not be allowed to become a silent national health crisis. Strong regulation of medicines, action against quackery and sustained public awareness can go a long way towards protecting people from preventable kidney damage and reducing the growing burden on the country’s healthcare system.
